Bengaluru: A tragic fire incident at an eatery in Malagala near Nagarabavi in west Bengaluru claimed the life of a 45-year-old hotel employee and left four others injured in the early hours of Saturday. The deceased, identified as Raj Kumar, was a native of Madhya Pradesh and had been working at the establishment for nearly a year. The eatery operated from the first floor of a three-storey commercial building, according to police.
Details of the Incident
Police reported that approximately 15 to 20 workers were asleep in various parts of the hotel when the fire broke out in the kitchen area, where Raj Kumar was sleeping. The flames were noticed by a few workers, who immediately alerted others and informed the police control room. Fire and emergency services personnel rushed to the spot and managed to bring the blaze under control using a fire tender. However, thick smoke had already spread through the premises, causing suffocation to Raj Kumar and four other workers.
Casualties and Medical Response
All five individuals were rushed to a nearby hospital, where Raj Kumar was declared dead upon arrival. The remaining four are currently undergoing treatment, with one of them reported to be in critical condition. The hospital staff is providing necessary medical care to the injured.
Preliminary Investigation
Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit, police added. Further inquiries are underway to determine the exact cause and to ensure safety measures are reviewed. The incident highlights the need for strict adherence to fire safety protocols in commercial establishments, especially those operating round the clock.
